The Alameda County Beekeepers Association

Open Hives in April 2023

Open Hives in April 2023

What’s an open hive?

In April, some generous club members will share their own hive inspection with new and prospective beekeepers. If you’re about to get your first bees, or if you’re still nervous about handling the bees you got and want to see how others do it, this is what you’ve been waiting for.

What an open hive is:

  • A free opportunity for newbies to see a hive inspection and handle bees with a more experienced ACBA member

What it’s not (and how to get the other thing):

To participate as a newbie: 

  1. Join the ACBA if you haven’t already 
  2. Look at the list of hosts below, then email or text the host to find the exact location and see if there is space available 
  3. Bring a beekeeping suit and gloves if you have them (if you don’t, ask the host if they will have one you can borrow when you sign up)
  4. Expect it to take around 60-90 minutes 
  5. Don’t bring unnecessary people; this is for seriously interested new beekeepers only to keep space available

Also, everyone involved should be fully vaccinated for Covid, and ideally test on the day. Don’t attend if you have Covid symptoms, of course.

Open hive host list

Here’s the list of hosts. Again, email or text the individual host to connect and get more info.

Saturday April 1 @ 1:00 PM, North Berkeley

Robert Mathews, beekeeper for 5 years. Can host two people. Email rob@tigertech.com

Saturday April 8, afternoon, Fremont

Phil Stob in Fremont. Email Phil at phil.stob@gmail.com

Saturday April 8 @ 10:30 AM

Robin Chatham; place TBD. Text 925-858-9760 or email Keeperofthewildbees@yahoo.com to get on the list. See the details; it will be fun!

Date and time TBD, San Leandro

Mark O’Neill, actor.markoneill@gmail.com

Saturday April 15 @ 1:00 PM, Berkeley

Contact David Bogdonoff, dbogdonoff@gmail.com

Sunday April 16 @ 10:30, Livermore

Joan Houston, 925-409-7573. Bee geek, dripz honey & waxworks — see description of day here

Date and time TBD, Redwood Heights in Oakland

Merry Luskin — would like someone able to do the lifting. Make sure you’re vaccinated for Covid. infonose@yahoo.com

Date and time TBD, South Fremont / Warm Springs

Andrew Miller andrew.g.miller@comcast.net

Want to host?

To participate as a host, pick a weekend day and time in April, then email webmaster@alamedabees.org to add or remove your listing above. Mention your general area, date and time, how many people can come, and how people should contact you.